By Martha Simchimba

Lilongwe, March 8, Mana: Traditional leaders across the country have been urged to promote peace and unity among their subjects in order for the country to have meaningful development.

Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Owen Chomanika, made the call on Friday at Mgwayi Ground in the area of Traditional Authority (T/A) Njewa during the elevation ceremony of T/A Kalumba to Senior Chief and installation of Button Chakhumba to T/A Malili.

Chakhumba was installed to T/A following the untimely death of Senior Chief Malili who died in a road accident in Mitundu in Lilongwe.

Chomanika said government, under the leadership of President Lazarus Chakwera, is elevating chiefs across the country in order for them to assist the government in fostering development programmes in their areas.

"As chiefs, you need to lead by example your subjects by promoting peace and unity and at the same time avoid corruption and biasness on any government programmes in your areas, such as Social Cash Transfer,” he said.  

Speaking on behalf of other chiefs, Senior Chief Njewa expressed gratitude to President Chakwera for entrusting her with the new position, saying she will make sure that she promotes the government agenda taking place in her area.

"I am more than happy to be part of the history that has been made today. I don't take this for granted, and I promise to work and abide by the rule of law," she said.

Minister of Mining Monica Chang’anamuno, Minister of Gender Jean Sendeza, Former Minister of Agriculture Lobin Lowe and District Commissioner for Lilongwe Dr. Lawford Palani were among those who graced the event.